Whitman County- The Port of Whitman County signed an Economic Development and Tourism Agreement with the Pullman Chamber of Commerce to fund a signage project along the Palouse Scenic Byway. The Port will contribute $18,493.98 to the project.  

The agreement funds new gateway signage for the Palouse Scenic Byway outside of Rosalia, LaCrosse, and Uniontown. The signs, originally installed in 2011, are damaged and need replaced. 

“The Pullman Chamber looks forward to replacing the signage in these locations,” Pullman Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Pete Chittenden said. “The county-wide tourism efforts of the Palouse Scenic Byway are crucial to the Whitman County economy. This project will improve the overall look of the signs and ensure the gateways to the byway are properly marked.” 

The Pullman Chamber of Commerce oversees the Palouse Scenic Byway, including managing its website and other marketing materials. The Port previously supported the Chamber’s work with the byway. In 2024, the Port contributed $5,000 to a video advertising campaign that highlighted Whitman County towns along the route. The Palouse Scenic Byway stretches over 200 miles on Highway 195, Highway 27, and Highway 26 in Whitman County. Attractions on the byway include Palouse Falls State Park, Boyer Park and Marina, Kamiak Butte, Steptoe Butte, the Dahmen Barn, and more.  

Pursuant to RCW 53.08.255, Washington ports are authorized to direct funds toward projects that “attract visitors and encourage tourist expansion.” The Port of Whitman County signs Economic Development and Tourism Agreements to encourage regional economic growth and tourism opportunities. Recent agreements include improvements to Rosalia’s RV park and restoration of the Whitman County Historical Society’s train cars at the Pullman Depot Heritage Center. 

“The Port is proud to support the Palouse Scenic Byway,” Port Commission President Karl Webber said. “Tourism is an important part of the Whitman County economy. The Palouse Scenic Byway ensures all Whitman County communities are represented in tourism marketing and advertising.” 

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About the Port of Whitman County

The Port of Whitman County is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all citizens of Whitman County through industrial real estate development, preservation of multi-modal transportation, facilitation of economic development and provision of on-water recreational opportunities. For more information about Port properties and ongoing projects, visit the Port website, www.portwhitman.com.